Atrophy

Naval Battle

To champion a pleasant life

Pacified, avoiding strife,

To dread the sorely needed knife:

A vile notion often taught

Voicing empty wind and naught,

That progress is utility caught-

Its essence, dwindling, even so

May come to halt without a foe-

Face some danger, hardship sow!

Progress stems from will to fight

Not from comfort, but from plight;

Whets itself on others’ might.

Steer away, remain not dull

Lest numbing bliss will take its toll,

Lest the bell resound its call.